As Christmas approaches and the decorations come out of the loft, it’s time to fill your home with festive sparkle — twinkling lights, delicious bakes, and plenty of cheer. But while you’re getting ready for the season, remember that you’re not the only one seeking warmth and comfort this winter.
Rodents and insects are on the lookout for cosy nesting spots and easy food sources. Non-properly stored decorations or festive treats can quickly turn into the perfect opportunity for pests to move in. A few simple precautions now will help you keep your home merry — and pest-free.
1. Store Festive Food Safely
From chocolate coins and advent calendars to mince pies and Christmas cake, festive treats are a big part of the season. Unfortunately, they’re also irresistible to pests.
It might seem convenient to keep extra food in the garage or shed when kitchen space is tight, but these outbuildings aren’t designed for food storage. They’re cool, damp, and easy for rodents and insects to access. Even covering food with a tea towel or a bit of foil won’t stop pests — they can smell it from afar and chew straight through soft coverings.
Instead:
- Keep all food items indoors in sealed, airtight containers.
- Avoid storing anything edible in garages, lofts, or sheds.
- Cover leftovers properly before bed — even just leaving mince pies or sweets out overnight can attract pests looking for a midnight feast.
- Wipe down surfaces and sweep up crumbs to remove tempting smells.
2. Protect Your Homemade Christmas Bakes
Homemade Christmas cakes, puddings, and biscuits often need time to mature — but leaving them loosely wrapped on the counter or in an outbuilding is risky. Pests can detect food from surprising distances.
Use airtight tins or sealed plastic boxes to store baked goods safely. This preserves their flavour while keeping pests and moisture firmly out.
3. Use Proper Containers for Decorations
When it comes time to pack everything away, don’t undo your hard work by using flimsy packaging. Cardboard boxes and plastic bags are easily chewed through by mice and can become damp or mouldy in cold lofts or garages.
Opt for sturdy, sealable plastic storage boxes instead. They’re durable, moisture-resistant, and ideal for keeping out pests. Clear boxes also make it easy to find what you need next year without rummaging through piles of dusty cardboard.
4. Store Wrapping Paper and Soft Items Properly
Leftover wrapping paper, ribbons, and tissue might seem harmless, but they make excellent nesting materials for rodents and insects.
Instead:
- Keep wrapping paper rolls in plastic tubes or containers.
- Recycle scraps and crumpled paper instead of saving them.
- Store soft items like stockings, tablecloths, and tree skirts in sealed boxes or vacuum bags.
5. Choose the Right Storage Spot
In many UK homes, decorations are stored in lofts, garages, or sheds — common entry points for pests. Store items off the floor and away from walls where possible, and always make sure the area is clean and dry.
6. Check for Forgotten Food and Early Signs of Pests
It’s easy to forget about a stray advent calendar or tin of biscuits tucked away with the decorations. Before sealing up your Christmas boxes, double-check that no food items have been left behind.
Be alert for signs of pest activity — droppings, gnaw marks, shredded paper, or a musty smell. If you spot anything suspicious, clean the area, dispose of affected items, and contact your local pest control specialists right away.
Keep the Season Merry — and Pest-Free
Christmas should be about family, food, and festive fun — not pests helping themselves to your mince pies or turning your decorations into nests. With proper food storage, sealed containers, and a few preventative steps, you can enjoy the holidays without unwanted guests.
If you suspect pests have already found their way in, contact your local pest control professionals for quick, reliable advice and treatment. Keep your Christmas merry — and your home pest-free.
